Bishop Burbidge Voices Solidarity with Refugees

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge

1/30/17

A child plays with a balloon in Douma, Syria Nov. 13. Reuters via CNS

In his statement
on the Executive Order halting refugee admissions, Bishop Joe Vasquez, Chair of
the Committee of Migration and Bishop of the Diocese of Austin, highlighted our
nation’s long and proud tradition of welcoming newcomers and refugees in a
humane manner, even as we have pursued a strong vetting system to ensure our
safety and security. Together with Bishop Vasquez and my brother bishops,
I encourage Catholics to contact our elected officials to make our
voices heard: our communities have been and will continue to be hospitable to
refugees, in keeping with our legacy of welcoming the stranger. Together,
we also pray for comprehensive immigration reform and for peace, safety and
harmony within our nation and throughout the world.